Bill > SB109

This bill creates a new pathway for emergency detention of minors by allowing certain mental health professionals (clinicians) in Wisconsin counties with fewer than 750,000 residents to initiate emergency detention of a minor under specific circumstances. The clinicians, which include psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers, must first be approved by their county and complete a specialized training program every two years. To initiate an emergency detention, the clinician must believe the minor is mentally ill, drug dependent, or developmentally disabled, and that detention is the least restrictive alternative for the minor's needs. The clinician must prepare a detailed statement documenting their reasons for seeking detention, which is then subject to approval by the county department of community programs. If approved, the county is responsible for placing the minor in custody and arranging transportation to a treatment facility. The bill also includes provisions to protect clinicians from liability when acting in good faith and establishes penalties for knowingly providing false information during the emergency detention process. This legislation aims to provide an additional mechanism for addressing mental health emergencies involving minors while maintaining safeguards for the minor's well-being.

Health and Social Services

Joint Legislative Council

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb109